In order to avoid the last of the winter winds, many charters choose to travel to the Keys or the Bahamas around this time of year. However, why not take advantage of the chance to see Alaska’s untamed, isolated, and captivating beauty? During an Alaskan yacht charter, explore the great outdoors like never before in one of the most stunning and remote places on earth. There are countless chances for exploration all year long. With an estimated 100,000 glaciers ranging in size from little cirque glaciers to massive valley glaciers, the expansive coastline of this region is adorned with snow-capped mountains, untamed landscapes, and thick forests. It’s no secret that a lot of people visit Alaska to see its wide variety of wildlife. An Alaskan yacht charter is the greatest way to observe these magnificent animals, which range from wolves and caribou on land to bears, moose, and sheep in the water and humpback whales, orcas, and grey whales in the sea. Alaska is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, but it also has a rich and complex past, with quaint coastal towns and villages that provide insight into the state’s past. An idyllic setting for a yacht charter, here’s a taste of what to expect if you decide to go on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure:
Day 1: Tracy Arm Fjord to Juneau
Leave from Juneau, the state capital of Alaska, which is situated along the Inside Passage, popularly referred to as Alaska’s marine highway. Savour a welcome feast while cruising the 15-mile-long, flooded glacial valley that divides Douglas Island from the mainland, the Gastineau Channel. Admire the breathtakingly beautiful evergreen-lined shoreline from the cosy and toasty confines of your yacht. Take a leisurely afternoon cruise via Stephens Passage, which leads to the breathtaking fjord of Tracy Arm. Watch for sea lions, orcas, and humpback whales while cruising down the passage. Explore the Tracy Arm fjord in the afternoon. See the twin Sawyer Glaciers up close by riding the tender over the ice floes. Then, admire the breathtaking splendour of the waterfalls cascading down the fjord’s sheer sides. Before heading back to your yacht for a fine dining experience overlooking the fjord, count how many harbour seals you can locate napping on icebergs. Unwind in the Alaskan dusk; you could catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights if you’re lucky.
Day 2: Baranof Island to Tracy Arm Fjord
Wake up early and head towards Baranof Island, a popular destination for its untamed beauty and hot springs. Savour a delicious breakfast while seeing the scenery that is changing all around you. After you get to the island, take a leisurely drive along the eastern shore, which is well-known for its abundance of waterfalls. Savour lunch on your yacht’s deck as you take in the breathtaking scenery as it passes by. Have your crew anchor close to Baranof Warm Springs later in the day. Step ashore in the tender and relish a personal outing to the natural springs for an extended, merited dip in the hot waters. Should you and your group feel really daring, how about planning a bear-watching or fishing excursion in the neighbouring wilderness? Enjoy a five-course dinner cooked by your chef using seafood that is gathered locally as dusk draws in. Enjoy the quiet of the Alaskan night as you spend the night beside Baranof Island, watching the stars come out.
Day 3: Glacier Bay National Park to Baranof Island
Get up early to head to Glacier Bay National Park, one of the Alaskan Inside Passage’s highlights. While you have breakfast, try to find additional whales. Take out the tender and view the Margerie and Grand Pacific glaciers once you’ve reached Glacier Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Keep an ear out for glaciers that are calving and enjoy the sound of crashing ice. Enjoy seeing wildlife in the afternoon, including moose, brown bears, eagles, and a variety of seabirds that make Glacier Bay home. Unpack the kayaks and head for tiny coves to gain a closer look at unadulterated nature before heading back to your boat. Enjoy a goodbye dinner and set out on your return trip to Junea as night sets. Think back on the incredible experiences you’ve had over the last three days.